Haaland's sharpness key for Norway against Brazil, says Odegaard

Norway is pinning its hopes on star striker Erling Haaland to spearhead their attack against Brazil in the World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match, as they aim to advance to the quarterfinals. Haaland, who has scored five goals in the tournament, continues to be Norway's linchpin after his late goal against Ivory Coast secured the team's historic first knockout stage win in 28 years.

Returning to the World Cup stage after nearly three decades, Norway hopes to replicate their 1998 victory over Brazil, though Haaland himself acknowledges their chances are slim. Head coach Stale Solbakken admitted Brazil is the favorite but insisted his team will not simply make up the numbers. "Brazil is the favorite, of course they are the favorite, but we hope to compete and we are not playing this match for fun, we are playing to win and advance to the quarterfinals. It might be possible, but it is very difficult," Solbakken said.

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Brazil is the favorite, of course they are the favorite, but we hope to compete and we are not playing this match for fun, we are playing to win and advance to the quarterfinals. It might be possible, but it is very difficult.

Solbakken lauded Haaland as one of the world's best strikers, noting his impressive record of 25 goals in his last 13 international appearances. "It's amazing to have him on the team, we are lucky to have him and he can change the outcome of the match. We just need to give him as many chances as possible," Odegaard stated.

Norway's captain, Martin Odegaard, echoed the sentiment, saying Haaland's presence instills high confidence in the team to surprise the South American giants. The team is focused on delivering a strong performance and challenging Brazil's dominance.

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It's amazing to have him on the team, we are lucky to have him and he can change the outcome of the match. We just need to give him as many chances as possible.